If someone you love is struggling after childbirth, here’s how to support them:

Don’t say “but the baby’s healthy!” That invalidates their experience.

Ask, don’t assume – “How are you really feeling?”

Take action – Cook a meal. Hold the baby while they shower. Text just to check in.

Encourage professional help – Offer to help find a therapist or go with them.

Watch for warning signs – If they talk about not wanting to live, or seem disconnected, get help immediately.

Support can be life-saving. Don’t wait for them to ask—because they may be too deep in it to reach out.

You’re Not Alone – Celebrities Who’ve Spoken Out

Chrissy Teigen wrote openly about her PPD, saying she didn’t think she could love her baby the way she was “supposed to.”

Brooke Shields broke barriers when she publicly discussed her postpartum experience in the early 2000s.

Adele, in interviews, has talked about her postpartum anxiety and the shame that came with it.

Serena Williams spoke about the emotional struggles after a traumatic birth.

Their stories remind us: this can happen to anyone. And healing is possible.

Support is available

Jamaica Mental Health and Suicide Prevention HelplineThis is a 24/7 service available to everyone in Jamaica. You can reach them by calling

(888) 639-5433 or 888-NEW-LIFE.

This helpline is provided by the Ministry of Health and Wellness and offers mental health support over the phone.  

SafeSpot: This is Jamaica's national child and teen helpline, operated by the Office of the Children's Advocate. They offer confidential counselling for children and teens 24/7. You can contact them via:

Phone: (888) 723-3776or888-SAFE-SPOT  

Text: (876) 439-5199 

Snapchat: @safespotja

Instagram: @safespotja 

U-Matter Chatline: This is a messaging-based chatline for youth inpartnership with the Ministry of Health and Wellness.

You can reach them via WhatsApp at (876) 838-4897.

Ministry of Health & Wellness Mental HealthToll-FreeHelpline:

You can also call (888) 663-5683 or 888-ONE-LOVEfor mental health support.

Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA)Hotline:

This hotline, at (876) 922-3826, provides mental health and emotional support for children and adolescents and operates 24/7.

Emergency Line: In case of an immediate crisis, you can call 119, which is the national emergency number for police, fire, and medical assistance, includingmental health emergencies.

Thank you for joining me on Invisibility by Ciardha. Invisible no more; open eyes, open minds.

Living in the shadows of Major Depressive Disorder can feel incredibly isolating, but it doesn't have to be a life sentence. By opening our eyes and our minds, by fosteringunderstanding and support, we can begin to dismantle the stigma and bring these experiences into the light. We can help individuals feel seen, heard, and ultimately, less invisible.

If someone you love is struggling:

• Don't push toxic positivity. Instead of 'just cheer up'. Try 'I'm here for you, even on the low days.'
• Be consistent. Reach out regularly, even if they don't always respond.
• Encourage treatment without judgment. Offer to help find a therapist or go with them to appointments.
• Listen-really listen- without needing to 'fix' them.
• Sometimes the best thing you can say, “You’re not a burden. I’m not going anywhere.”

• Focus on their strengths: Notice and acknowledge what they are doing well. Set small, realistic goalstogether.
• Encourage social connection: Helpthem stay connected with friends and family, even if they withdraw at times. Lonliness can worsen symptoms.
• Reduce stress: Help create a calm and structured environment, as stress can trigger or worsen symtoms.

CAREGIVERS REMEMBER TO TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF!!

• Set boundaries: Recognise your own limits and don't try to do everything. Your well-being is also important.
• Seek Support for yourself: Consider joining a support group for families of people with mental illness. Sharing experiences and coping strategies with others in similar situations can be incredibly helpful.

• Talk to a therapist or counsellor: Processing your own feelings and experiences can help you better support your loved one.

Here’s the truth—stigma kills. It keeps people from seeking help. It isolates. It silences.

Helplines and Hotlines:

• Jamaica Mental Health and Suicide Prevention HelplineThis is a 24/7 service available to everyone in Jamaica. You can reach them by calling (888) 639-5433 or 888-NEW-LIFE. This helpline is provided by the Ministry of Health and Wellness and offers mental health support over the phone.  
• SafeSpot: This is Jamaica's national child and teen helpline, operated by the Office of the Children's Advocate. THey offer confidential counselling for children and teens 24/7. You can contact them via:

• Phone: (888) 723-3776 or888-SAFE-SPOT  
• Text: (876) 439-5199  
• Snapchat: @safespotja
• Instagram: @safespotja  

• U-Matter Chatline: This is a messaging-based chatline for youth inpartnership with the Ministry of Health and Wellness. You can reach them via WhatsApp at (876) 838-4897.

•   Ministry of Health & Wellness Mental HealthToll-Free Helpline: You can also call (888) 663-5683 or 888-ONE-LOVE for mental health support.

• Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA)Hotline:This hotline, at (876) 922-3826, provides mental health and emotional support for children and adolescents and operates 24/7.

• Emergency Line: In case of an immediate crisis, you can call 119, which is the national emergency number for police, fire, and medical assistance, includingmental health emergencies.

Thank you for joining me on Invisibility by Ciardha. Remember our motto: Invisible no more; open eyes, open minds. Let's continue to have these important conversations.

Jamaica Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Helpline: This is a 24/7 service available to everyone in Jamaica. You can reach them by calling (888) 639-5433 or 888-NEW-LIFE. This helpline is provided by the Ministry of Health and Wellness and offers mental health support over the phone.

• SafeSpot: This is Jamaica's national child and teen helpline, operated by the Office of the Children's Advocate. They offer confidential counseling for children and teens 24/7. You can contact them via:

   Phone: (888) 723-3776 or 888-SAFE-SPOT     Text: (876) 439-5199  

Snapchat: @safespotja

Instagram:@safespotja  

• U-Matter Chatline: This is a messaging-based chatline for youth in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Wellness. You can reach them via WhatsApp at (876) 838-4897.  
• 
  
• Ministry of Health & Wellness Mental Health Toll-Free Helpline:
• You can also call (888) 663-5683 or 888-ONE-LOVE for mental health support.
• 
  
• Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA) Hotline: This hotline, at (876) 922-3826, provides mental health and emotional support for children and adolescents and operates 24/7.

• RISE Life Management Services: This organization offers mental health support and can be reached at (876) 967-3777-8 or toll-free at 888-991-4146.

•   Important Considerations:Suicidal thoughts can affect anyone, and it's important to remember that things can get better with support.  
• Reaching out to a crisis counselor can provide a safe space to talk and help you see that there are other options.  
• Jamaica is working to break down the stigma associated with mental health and encourage open conversations.  

Jamaica Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Helpline: This is a 24/7 service available to everyone in Jamaica. You can reach them by calling (888) 639-5433 or 888-NEW-LIFE. This helpline is provided by the Ministry of Health and Wellness and offers mental health support over the phone.

   Phone: (888) 723-3776 or 888-SAFE-SPOT     Text: (876) 439-5199  

Snapchat: @safespotja

Instagram:@safespotja  

  Important Considerations:Suicidal thoughts can affect anyone, and it's important to remember that things can get better with support.  

Reaching out to a crisis counselor can provide a safe space to talk and help you see that there are other options.  

Jamaica is working to break down the stigma associated with mental health and encourage open conversations.  

KEY FACTS TAKEN FROM WHO

1. Affordable, effective and feasible strategies exist to promote, protect and restore mentalhealth.·The need for action on mental health is indisputable and urgent.
2. Mental health has intrinsic and instrumental value and is integral to our well-being.
3. ·Mental health is determined by a complex interplay of individual, social and structural stressesand vulnerabilities."

"Mental health is a state of mental well-being that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realize their abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to their community"

If you or anyone you know, are struggling today or need someone to talk to about your or someone else's mental health, contact the Jamaica Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Helpline at (888)639-5433.

"Invisibility by Ciardha" returns for its second season, diving deep into the often-unseen landscape of mental health. This season, Ciardha shifts the focus from broad societal perspectives to the deeply personal journey of understanding and nurturing your own mental well-being.

In a world that often prioritizes external achievements and relentless productivity, we're invited to explore the inner world – the emotions, thoughts, and experiences that shape our daily lives. Kimberley, with compassion and curiosity, guides listeners through crucial conversations about self-awareness, resilience, and the power of vulnerability.

This season tackles questions like: What does genuine mental wellness look like? How can we navigate the complexities of stress, anxiety, and self-doubt? And, most importantly, how can we cultivate a sense of inner peace and connection in a world that often feels isolating?

Through insightful interviews, personal reflections, and practical tools, "Mental Health and You" aims to dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health and empower listeners to prioritize their own well-being. Kimberley creates a safe and supportive space for open dialogue, reminding us that vulnerability is a strength and that seeking support is a sign of courage.

Join Kimberley as we illuminate the often-invisible aspects of mental health and embark on a journey of self-discovery, healing, and empowerment. Because your mental health matters, and you are far from invisible.

Myofascial pain syndrome is a long-term pain condition. It involves some muscles and the thin cover of tissue that holds muscles in place, called fascia. Pressure on these areas, called trigger points, causes pain.

This syndrome can happen after a muscle has been tensed over and over. Repeated motions used in jobs or hobbies can be the cause. So can stress-related muscle tension, poor posture and weak muscles.

In some cases, the cause of myofascial pain is unknown.The pain of myofascial pain syndrome doesn't go away. Treatment options include exercise, massage, physical therapy and shots in the trigger points. Pain medicines and finding ways to relax also can help.

According to available data, experts estimate that up to 85% of the general population may experience myofascial pain syndrome at some point in their lives, making it a very common condition.  A significant portion of patients visiting pain clinics are diagnosed with myofascial pain syndrome. 

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"Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic disease that causes inflammation around the body and commonly presents with pain in the joints.Untreated, RA can cause severe damage to the joints and their surrounding tissue. It can lead to heart, lung or nervous system problems.Common symptoms include chronic pain, stiffness, tenderness, heat and swelling in the joints. RA can make it hard to move and perform daily activities.The causes of rheumatoid arthritis are unknown. Risk factors include smoking, obesity and exposure to air pollution. Women and older people have a higher risk of developing RA."-WHO

Facebook Support groups include;

 Rheumatoid Arthritis Group, National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society (NRAS) (also have a help line)

In the Caribbean, The Caribbean Asocciation of Rheumatology in St. Lucia and they will be in Nassau, Bahamas from May 2-4, 2025. Registration open online at

https://caribrheum.org/conferences/caribbean-rheumatology-conference-2025

Arthritis Foundations in many countries also exist.

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Support from a variety of source exists including health care providers, support groups, and assistive devices.

Online groups

Osteoarthritis Online Support Group: A private Facebook group for people with OA

My Knee Community: An online peer-to-peer support group with a moderator who posts research and links to resources

Local groups Versus Arthritis: Local groups that bring people with arthritis together to share experiences and get support in personPatient advocacy organisations.

Osteoarthritis Action Alliance (OAAA): Offers brochures, guides, and fact sheets on OA, as well as a handout with resources and programs for self-care, pain management, and more.

Arthritis Foundation Offers support, resources, research, and advocacy for people with arthritis Other resources.

CreakyJoints: Helps people find arthritis support groups near them.

Wellness Together Canada: Connects Canadians to peer support workers, social workers, and other professionals.

Talking to friends and family.

You can also talk to friends or family members who have arthritis about your experience.

Celebrities with OA

Gordie Howe: NHL player who was forced to retire in 1971 due to arthritis in his left wrist.

Shaquille O'Neal: Basketball star who has had arthritis in his big toe.

Dorothy Hamill: Figure skater who has osteoarthritis of the hips, knees, and neck.

Robbie Coltrane: The actor who played Hagrid in the Harry Potter movies has severe osteoarthritis in one of his knees.

Jennie Garth: The actress was diagnosed with osteoarthritis at age 47. She first noticed stiffness and aching in her hips.

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Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) Is poorly understood. CRPS is one of the highest pain & inflammatory diseases known carrying a 42/50 in the McGill pain scale. CRPS usually occurs after an injury. There is no simple cure or single treatment recommendations, it requires a multidisciplinary approach to help manage. 

CRPS has also been described as an “invisible” condition. People diagnosed with CRPS look perfectly healthy on the outside, nevertheless they are suffering from severe, life-altering chronic pain on the inside.  

The approximate overall incidence rate of CRPS was 26.2 per 100,000 person years with females affected at least three times more often than males. The highest incidence occurred in females aged 61-70 years.   

For newly diagnosed patients, it was found in research that one-year prior to diagnosis for all CRPS patients spent total costs of $7904 outpatient costs $6706 and pain prescription costs $1862-$7649. At the year of CRPS diagnosis, the median [IQR] costs were significantly higher than the baseline costs with a range of $8508-$16,666; outpatient costs $7251-$13,568; and pain prescription costs $2077-$8856. Over an eight-year period after CRPS diagnosis, costs between all the years ranged from the highest (one-year) to lowest (seven-years), $4845 to $3888.   

CELEBRITIES WITH CRPS 

SUPPORT/RESOURCES 

Chronic Regional Pain Syndrome there is nothing to be seen, apart from sometimes goose bumps or swelling. 

Remember, CRPS is a enfeeble and difficult condition so for those supporting someone with CRPS make sure that they talk to their friends and family as well, to express their emotions and fears, so that they can be more equipped to support the person with CRPS, even when it can be a very hard task at times. 

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See yah, next time!